Heat safety - The best clothing for hot weather
Here’s what to wear in hot weather to stay cool.
It’s no secret that global temperatures are rising, so experts are predicting that we’re going to have more frequent – and lengthier – heatwaves. It’s recommended to stay inside during the worst heat of the day and utilise fans or air conditioning to stay safe. However, many people forget how important our clothing is when it comes to keeping us feeling cool. Here are our top tips on the right wardrobe choices to make when those summer temperatures really sizzle.
Keep things loose
It’s better to wear looser fitting items instead of something that will cling to your sticky skin during the heat. Looser clothing also enables the sweat to evaporate from the skin – a process which is essential to keep cool. Why? Because when our bodies overheat, the brain messages the sweat glands to go forth and produce. And when that sweat moisture evaporates, it cools the body down.
The magic of the right fabric
You should also opt for breathable, natural fabrics which are soft and comfortable against the skin. Because – little known fact alert – hot and/or humid conditions can make you more prone to irritation like chafing and heat rash, especially if you have sensitive skin. Aim for loose fitting cotton, silk or linen (ideally made from flax because it’s also hypoallergenic and moisture-resistant). Each of these fabrics allow air to circulate and for sweat to evaporate.
You can check the composition tags - which are usually down the bottom of one side of the item – to get more information about the fabric. If your wardrobe needs a few more summer-ready items you don’t have to spend a fortune, either. Head to a local op shop, like Lifeline – and ask the staff to help you find some great, heatwave-friendly clothing that won’t set you back much.
Fresh feet
The worst sock material for hot and/or sweaty feet? Surprisingly, it’s 100% cotton because it’s a fabric that’s likely to retain sweat. Not fun if your feet are encased in closed in shoes or runners all day!
Instead, look for socks made with antimicrobial merino wool (which dries quickly), bamboo or even synthetics blends such as polyester or nylon because those fabrics will draw moisture away from the skin so it can evaporate. You can also use your socks to help cool down your whole body – because feet are a quick-to-cool area. (NB: Try this only if you don’t have any kind of medical/circulation issues with your feet). Simply soak your socks in cold water - or stick them in the freezer for 10 minutes, then pop them on and you’ll start to feel immense relief as your body temperature lowers.
Smart accessories
You can also invest in a slim neck wrap with frozen inserts that you wear to keep cool. Alternatively, soak a face cloth in icy cold water, wring it out and drape it around your neck. Another option is to regularly spritz the back of your neck, forehead and pulse points with cold water.
Read more about staying safe during summer.
More information about Heat Safety
- Queensland Government, Keeping Healthy in the Heat.
- South Australia Health Wellbeing and Food Safety during Hot Weather.
- NSW Health, Heatwave Preparation Checklist.
- Australian Climate Service.
- South Australia Health, ‘Know the Signs’
If you need medical advice during the heat, call 13 HEALTH (13 432 584) or in the case of an emergency, always call triple zero (000).
Working together to take climate action
BlueCare’s heat health resources were funded by the Queensland Government under the Sector Adaptation Plan co-investment program, to advance climate change resilience in the human health and wellbeing sector. This is another example of how the Queensland Government's Climate Action Plan is making a difference.
BlueCare extends thanks to Griffith University for their partnership and extensive work to improve heat health awareness and resilience in Queensland, particularly for older persons. Learn more about Griffith University’s Extreme Heat and Older Persons (EtHOS) Project.